The Religious Freedom Restoration Act prevents religious discrimination throughout the U.S. Other statutes and the U.S. Constitution also protect employees.
Despite these legal protections, religious discrimination still occurs in the workplace. Below are some common examples.
Denying opportunities
Religious discrimination can occur before a person is even in a job. If an employer refuses to hire people who follow certain faiths, this is religious discrimination. The denial of opportunities can also occur when an individual has been employed. For example, if a qualified individual is not offered access to promotions because of their religion, this is discrimination.
Discriminatory terminations
Indiana is an at-will employment state. This means that employees can be fired or quit without any notice. Nonetheless, a termination cannot be based on religion. It is also unlawful for an employer to make the working life of a person so uncomfortable because of their faith that they are forced to quit.
Harassment
Harassment is usually verbal, but it can also be physical. When an employee is subjected to offensive comments based on their religion, this is unlawful discrimination. The same is true if they face physical threats or violence because of their religion.
Reasonable accommodations
Religious individuals have a right to request reasonable accommodations. These are adjustments to the workplace that make it more inclusive. For example, a religious individual may ask to pray at certain times of the day. They may request certain days off to follow religious protocols. An employer can only deny these requests if they would cause undue hardship to the company. Not considering reasonable accommodation requests or refusing them outright may amount to religious discrimination.
No one should have to face discrimination at work. If the above examples strike a chord with you, it may be time to seek legal guidance.
